Ted Mack, 'Father of Independents', dies

Figureheads from all sides of the political spectrum have paid tribute to the "Father of Independents" Ted Mack, who has died at 84.

Mr Mack, who served in local, state and federal government, died peacefully on Tuesday morning, his family said in a statement, after suffering a stroke last week.

Mr Mack, who was diagnosed with stage four lung and brain cancer two years ago, represented the federal seat of North Sydney from 1990 to 1996 after a stint in state parliament as well as mayor of North Sydney.

Former federal treasurer Joe Jockey described Mr Mack as an honourable man who "redefined politics" on Sydney's lower north shore.

Fellow independent Rob Oakshott tweeted: "Ted Mack. A life lived of both leadership and service. Respect."

Former independent for New England Tony Windsor said Mr Mack was "an example to anyone contemplating public service" and a "model independent".

Mack was elected to NSW parliament in 1981 after winning the Liberal seat of North Shore and retired in 1988, two days before he would have qualified for the parliamentary pension.